Human Remains Found After Family Loft Collapses in Mechanic Shop Fire

The loft structure collapsed onto the commercial property in the 4300 block of East Compton Boulevard

The remains of two people were found Monday after a residential loft above a Compton business collapsed in a fire.

The father and three children -- six family members reside in the loft -- were located after the fire, but authorities said they could not account for the mother and a 12-year-old child. An urban search-rescue unit and at least one search dog were called to the site.

The remains found amid the debris have not been identifed as those of the mother and child.

Los Angeles County and Compton firefighters responded to the location at a single-story building the 4300 block of East Compton Boulevard (map). Fire was shooting through the roof of the building when firefighters arrived.

A firefighter suffered a knee injury.

"It's always a concern when one of our brothers gets injured," said LA County Fire Department inspector Scott Miller. "But it's a very strenuous job and we all know what the risks are. We're thinking about him."

A hazardous materials crew responded to the property.

Fire crews initially responded to the site after a report of "suspicious activity." Drug paraphernalia was found around the property, according to fire officials. 

The fire was knocked down at about 3:30 a.m.

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